Aston Villa have made their stance clear: star striker Ollie Watkins is not for sale. The Birmingham club swiftly rejected a formal bid from Arsenal for the England international as they look to build on last season’s success that saw them qualify for the Champions League.
Emery: Watkins Committed to Villa Project
Speaking in a press conference, Villa manager Unai Emery said Watkins is fully bought into the club’s ambitious project and has no desire to leave, despite the interest from Arsenal.
Ollie is happy to stay here. His commitment to Aston Villa is huge – he appreciates how the club has supported and helped him. Now we need him, like he needed Villa in recent years.
– Unai Emery, Aston Villa Manager
Watkins fired Villa back into the Champions League for the first time in over four decades last season with an impressive 19 goals in the Premier League. The 27-year-old has continued his fine form this campaign, netting 10 times to spearhead Villa’s push for the top four.
Arsenal’s Striker Search Hits Roadblock
For Arsenal, Watkins’ decision to stay at Villa Park represents a significant blow to their hopes of signing a striker before the transfer window closes. Manager Mikel Arteta admitted the club are trying everything to bolster their attack but conceded it “doesn’t depend only on us.”
The Gunners’ pursuit of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko also reportedly hit a snag, with the Bundesliga side reluctant to sell the talented Slovenian in January. As the clock ticks down, Arsenal’s options appear to be dwindling.
Villa Stand Firm Despite Departures
Villa’s resolve to keep Watkins comes as striker Jhon Durán closes in on an €85m move to Al Nassr. However, rather than pushing Villa to cash in on their prized asset, Durán’s imminent exit has only strengthened their determination to retain Watkins’ services.
When teams are interested in our players, it’s good for them and the club. But some players like Ollie commit to our challenges and decide to stay.
– Unai Emery
With Watkins leading the line and Villa impressing in their Champions League return, fans will be confident their club can continue to fend off interest in their star players and enhance their status as a Premier League force both on the field and in the transfer market.
